Mary Earps The current Fifa goalkeeper of the year earned her stripes once again. Big personality and world-class saves in every match were a vital part of England’s performances. Saved Jenni Hermoso’s penalty in the final and picked up the Golden Glove award. 8
Millie Bright Solid, especially given that a knee injury had ruled her out since March. The game against Haiti was a baptism of fire as she rediscovered her match fitness and she grew into the tournament. Three at the back suited her and she led by example. 8
Lucy Bronze Flourished at times in the new 3-4-2-1 formation despite having played most of her career in a back four. Looked good going forward but had a tendency to get caught out of position. Lacked defensive awareness and was over adventurous for Spain’s goal. 7
Jess Carter Remarkable change of fortunes for the Chelsea defender. After only playing 16 minutes at Euro 2022, she started all but one of England’s matches. A stalwart in the back three, her speed and alert recovery challenges were eye- catching. 9
Alex Greenwood After a bit-part role last summer, she made a starting position her own. Her calmness and tenacity were evident throughout and experience showed. Also a threat from set-piece deliveries. Added advantage of having a left-footed defender was key to defensive solidity. 9
Georgia Stanway Struggled to adjust to the system at times. Had to adapt to different positions meaning she lacked her customary rhythm and consistency. Her aggressive press was always beneficial and passing quality shone through. Assist for Alessia Russo against Colombia was a standout moment. 7
Ella Toone Lack of confidence and form were evident as she struggled to make an impact on play. Replaced by Lauren James but returned after the Chelsea star’s suspension. Produced her best performance against Australia and scored a well-struck goal. Needs a rest. 6
Keira Walsh The nation breathed a sigh of relief after the most miraculous recovery from injury since Katie McCabe’s 72-hour boot saga for Arsenal. Was not afforded the space to dictate the play as she is accustomed. Reliability remained and provided good protection in front of the defence. 7
Rachel Daly Left out against Haiti but ever-present since that point. At times England’s most potent looking attacker despite playing at left wing-back. Lack of a left foot, however, slowed the attack down as she constantly cut inside. Brilliant strike against China. 7
Lauren Hemp Resurgence of England’s young forward is a highlight of the tournament. Thrived in the front two as her pace, energy in the press and quality shone through. Three goals a reward for her standout performances. Partnership with Russo is developing. 9
Alessia Russo Another player who thrived in England’s altered system and grew in confidence throughout the tournament as she adapted to her new role and responsibility. Two of her three goals were trademark. Hold up play could improve, and she struggled in the final. 8
Chloe Kelly With a hop, skip and a jump, her cool penalty sent England to the quarter-finals. Potent from the bench and added a new dimension in attack. 8
Lauren James Left with the thought of what might have been. Shone against Denmark and China but moment of petulance led to two- match suspension. Couldn’t make an impact in the final. 7
Laura Coombs Made her major tournament debut when Walsh picked up an injury against Denmark. Performed solidly when called upon. 6
Katie Zelem Started her first World Cup game against China in the absence of Walsh. Put in a strong midfield performance in England’s new system. Took it all in her stride. 7
Niamh Charles Given 20 minutes against China and performed solidly. Not given much opportunity to really make a mark. 6
Bethany England After not playing a minute at the Euros, it was good to see her get her moment. Held up the ball well. Coolly taken penalty against Nigeria a highlight. 7
